Steps to getting a cochlear implant

Step 1: Talk to your audiologist

Ask about the possibility of a cochlear implant. Your audiologist will be able to determine whether you could benefit from one and refer you to a specialist clinic for an assessment if necessary.

Step 2: Assessment

An assessment is an opportunity to talk to healthcare professionals and ask lots of questions. It will involve a variety of tests over several appointments. For those who qualify, hearing implants are provided on the National Health Services of the UK and Ireland.

Watch this video if you are considering a cochlear implant.

Step 3: Surgery

Cochlear implant surgery is routine and often done as a day case. It is an established procedure that has been available in the UK for over 30 years.

Step 4: Activation

A few weeks after surgery, your audiologist will activate your sound processor, and you will begin to hear new sounds. How well you will hear right away varies from person to person and will depend on the length and degree of your hearing loss.

Step 5: Rehabilitation

You’ll be supported by audiologists and therapists over the following months, learning to embrace your new world of sound with regular speech and listening practice.